Search Results

In comparison to aluminum, Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) iron has superior mechanical properties, enables the use of parent bore running surfaces and fracture split main bearings, and provides advantageous NVH, package size, cost, and manufacturing CO2 profiles. Despite these advantages, aluminum blocks have leveraged density, and therefore weight, differentials to make considerable gains in the small, in-line passenger vehicle sector over the last 30 years. In order to demonstrate the potential benefits of CGI for small, in-line spark-ignition engines, the present study converted the cylinder block of a series production 1.2 litre three-cylinder engine from aluminum to CGI. Leveraging a novel design concept, with the running surface and load path constructed from high-strength CGI and the outer crankcase housing fabricated from durable, lightweight plastic, the assembled cylinder block achieved the same weight as the original aluminum block.

One of the most promising applications for the use of hydrogen in vehicles is in the combustion engine. According to the legislation proposal being considered by European Union, hydrogen internal combustion engines (H2ICE) are zero emissions solution. Among the existing solutions, H2ICE is becoming the preferred one on long haul trucks and offroad applications. This is due to the high durability of the powertrain, the lower initial investment when compared to other alternatives, and the possibility of using low purity hydrogen. However, despite the high potential use of hydrogen, because of it is the smallest known chemical element, its use can result in the penetration of hydrogen into metallic materials, with the undesirable effect of embrittlement. This effect occurs mainly when the material surface is exposed to high temperatures and pressures, or under corrosion.